White Oak (or Red Oak species)
Quercus alba (or Quercus spp.) · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America.
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable (heartwood has high decay resistance and rot resistance, though sapwood is perishable).
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly coarse end grain view, prominent rays visible cutting perpendicular to the growth rings, ring-porous structure with large open springwood pores.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium tan/brown hue with a slight grayish-yellow cast; rough sawn surface obscures deep luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (heartwood has high decay resistance and rot resistance, though sapwood is perishable).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade, thickness, and local availability.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut or recently milled dimensional lumber showing fresh saw marks and minimal surface oxidation (under 2 years).
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainably managed in North America, readily available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, barrel cooperage, heavy construction, boatbuilding, and trim work.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America.
Workability
Good overall workability; cuts cleanly, glues well, and holds screws/nails securely, though high density can dull sharp tool edges and requires pre-drilling.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and clear finishes exceptionally well. Open pores may require a paste wood filler for a glass-smooth finish; oil-based polyurethane or film-forming finishes work great.
Notable Features
High tannin content which can react with iron/moisture to form dark blue-black stains; prominent medullary rays produce distinctive ray fleck figure on quarter-sawn surfaces.
